A Memorial Monument 400 Years Overdue
Harambee Kingston NY is proud to launch the Capital Campaign for the first Memorial Monument at the historic Pine Street African Burial Ground, located at 157 Pine Street, Kingston, NY.
The Pine Street African Burial Ground is a sacred site that holds the remains of African men, women, and children, enslaved and free, whose lives and labor helped build Kingston. For more than two centuries, their stories and resting place were neglected, disrespected, and overlooked.
The PSABG Memorial Monument will finally provide the public recognition, dignity, and honor they deserve. It stands as a powerful symbol of:
Remembrance for those buried in this unmarked historic burial ground
Resilience of a people whose strength and endurance shaped our community
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Restitution through truth-telling, healing, and preservation
As the United States prepares to mark its 250th Anniversary, the Kingston community has an opportunity to lead with integrity, acknowledgment, and a renewed commitment to community-building. This monument is not only overdue, it is the right action to take.
National Historic Designation
In September 2025, Harambee Kingston NY, Inc. received formal recommendations from the Historic Commission and Governor Kathy Hochul in support of National Historic Designation for the Pine Street African Burial Ground. We are now awaiting the final approval of the nomination from Washington through the Library of Congress and National Park Service review process.
Capital Campaign Goal: $85,000.00
To complete the construction and installation of the Memorial Monument, including the granite stone, engraved inscription, materials, and labor, Harambee Kingston NY must raise $85,000.00. We are pleased to announce that we have received a matching grant for $36,000.00. The community has collectively donated $12,000.00 by attending our events and fundraisers. Your continued support will help ensure this mission becomes a powerful landmark of history, remembrance and education.
The Memorial Monument will be unveiled during Juneteenth 2026 with a public ceremony and parade honoring the individuals and families laid to rest at the Pine Street African Burial Ground and celebrating this long-awaited achievement for Kingstonians and for generations to come, in perpetuity.
Mark your calendars, this will be a Memorial Monument
of remembrance, respect and history.
For more information about the Memorial Monument Capital Campaign and to make a Donation, visit our website.
Harambee Kingston NY : www.HarambeeKingstonNY.org
For interviews, please send email to: info@harmabeekingstonny.org.
Your Support Is Appreciated. Thank You. Ase